Alberta’s government is investing $5 million through the Wetland Replacement Program to support projects that will restore and construct wetlands across the province.
According to a press release from the province, this funding will help municipalities and non-profits develop seven projects that will impact over 165 hectares of wetlands.
Wetlands play a crucial role in Alberta’s environment, acting as natural “sponges” by storing and slowly releasing water to reduce flooding and drought impacts.
They also filter runoff, recharge groundwater, and provide important habitat for wildlife.
Since its launch in 2020, the Wetland Replacement Program has the Alberta government has invested more than $21 million to restore or construct approximately 609 hectares of wetlands.
The program allows for the restoration of historically drained wetlands and supports innovative research on peatland restoration.
The seven new projects funded through this latest investment are spread across the province, from northern Alberta’s M.D. of Opportunity to Starland County in the south.
These projects will focus on restoring wetlands drained for agricultural use and constructing new wetlands in areas once used for reservoirs.
This initiative continues to build on Alberta’s commitment to environmental sustainability and water security.
